De Paul’s opener came in the 17th minute after a fluid attacking sequence. Berterame’s persistence on the left led to a pinpoint pass from Segovia, who found ‘El Motorcito’ in space. De Paul made no mistake, rifling a beauty into the top corner with his right boot – Segovia’s third assist highlighting Miami’s creative edge.

Messi, the talismanic captain, struck next in the 27th minute. Silvetti’s precise assist set him up perfectly, and the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner calmly finished for his third league goal and landmark 80th for the club. Inter Miami led 2-0 at the break, dominating possession and chances.

The hosts responded late through Baribo’s 75th-minute strike, injecting tension into the closing stages. Yet, Miami’s resilience shone through, clinching the points.

Coach Mascherano reflected: ‘First half was excellent – we dictated terms and scored. Second half challenged us more, but positives outweigh negatives. Two away wins from three is solid progress.’

With momentum building, Inter Miami prepares for a midweek Concacaf Champions Cup clash against Nashville SC. Messi’s form signals big things ahead for the Herons.

Messi’s pinpoint pass to Marcelo Weigandt in the dying minutes led to what appeared to be a game-winning goal in the 96th minute. After a VAR review, the goal was confirmed, solidifying the victory for Inter Miami.

Earlier in the second half, Messi set up Telasco Segovia in the 58th minute, giving Miami a 1-0 lead. Segovia calmly finished, easing the pressure on Miami after a tightly contested first half.

Atlas responded with a goal from Rivaldo Lozano in the 82nd minute, leveling the score. However, Messi’s late assist ensured Inter Miami’s triumph.

Messi’s performance capped off an impressive July, with eight goals and five assists, earning him the MLS Player of the Month award. Inter Miami maintained a 4-1-1 record during this period.

The first half was a physical battle with no goals. Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo made crucial saves, including a diving stop on Eduardo Aguirre’s header. Luis Suárez nearly scored before halftime, but his shot hit the crossbar.

The match also saw the debut of Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s teammate from Argentina, who recently joined Miami.

This hard-fought win marks a strong start to Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign. Messi’s late-game heroics once again proved his significance, and with new additions like De Paul, Miami’s aspirations continue to grow.